Does the Honda Passport use VCM?
The Passport does use Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) on its 3.5-liter V6 engine, a technology Honda applies to shut down cylinders under light load to improve fuel economy. This feature is shared with the Pilot, the Passport’s platform cousin, and has been part of the engine family since the model was introduced in the U.S. market.
In practice, VCM activates and deactivates cylinders automatically based on driving conditions. It’s designed to be transparent to most drivers, delivering better efficiency during steady cruising while preserving power when you press the accelerator or need torque for hills, towing, or merging.
How VCM works in everyday driving
VCM, or Variable Cylinder Management, is Honda’s system for varying the number of active cylinders in the V6 engine. When cruising at light loads or coasting with minimal throttle, the engine can deactivate some cylinders to save fuel. When more power is required, the engine rapidly reactivates the cylinders to provide full performance. The changeover happens automatically and is intended to be smooth, though some drivers may notice brief changes in engine sound or feel during the transition.
Does Passport specifically use VCM?
Yes. The Honda Passport’s 3.5-liter V6, used in U.S.-market models, includes Honda’s VCM technology as part of the engine family shared with the Pilot. This means the Passport can operate with fewer active cylinders under appropriate driving conditions to improve fuel efficiency, particularly during steady cruising or light-throttle situations. The system is designed to operate automatically and is not typically user-adjustable.
Software handling and refinement of VCM have evolved over model years. Honda has issued updates to address transition smoothness and engine behavior, so newer Passport models may exhibit refined VCM operation compared with earlier ones. If you notice persistent roughness or unusual behavior, a dealer can verify software versions and perform updates if needed.
What to look for in the drivetrain and maintenance
Because VCM operates automatically, there is generally no dedicated switch to enable or disable it. If you experience a rough idle, unusual sounds, or hesitation that you believe is related to cylinder deactivation, consult a Honda service professional—especially if your vehicle is still under warranty. Software updates and routine maintenance can resolve most concerns related to VCM behavior.
Before you head to the dealership, here are a few key points to know about VCM on the Passport:
- Engine family: 3.5-liter V6 with i-VTEC, shared with the Pilot, featuring cylinder management for efficiency gains.
- Operational principle: VCM automatically transitions between a higher and lower number of active cylinders based on load and speed.
- Model coverage: In U.S.-market Passports, the 3.5L V6 typically includes VCM as part of the engine specifications across common trims.
In summary, the Passport does include VCM in its standard engine setup, aligning with Honda’s broader strategy to boost fuel economy on larger, capable SUVs without sacrificing everyday performance.
Common questions about VCM in the Passport
Below are frequent inquiries from buyers and owners, with brief clarifications:
- Will VCM affect towing performance? In many driving scenarios, VCM is designed to optimize efficiency while maintaining adequate torque; heavy towing conditions still rely on the full engine, and you may notice VCM behavior more during light-load cruising than under load.
- Can I disable VCM if I don’t like how it feels? There is typically no user-activated switch to disable VCM; if you’re concerned about the feel, a dealer can review software and driveline behavior and, where applicable, apply factory updates.
- Is VCM reliability a concern? Honda has maintained VCM as a standard feature for efficiency, and most owners report normal long-term reliability with proper maintenance and timely software updates.
- Does every Passport have VCM? In the U.S. market, the 3.5L V6 engine configuration that underpins the Passport generally includes VCM; verify with the exact VIN/trim if you’re looking at a specific vehicle.
Summary
Yes – the Honda Passport uses Variable Cylinder Management on its 3.5L V6 engine, designed to improve fuel economy by deactivating cylinders during light-load cruising and reactivating them when more power is needed. The feature is automatic, with refinements added over model years, and is a part of the Passport’s engine family shared with the Pilot. For most buyers, VCM operates seamlessly in everyday driving, with dealership updates available if any concerns arise.
Does the Honda Passport have cylinder deactivation?
Yes, the Honda Passport has cylinder deactivation, using a system called Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) to improve fuel efficiency by shutting down cylinders during light-load driving. This feature has been included in all models since the 2019 redesign.
- Variable Cylinder Management (VCM): This is Honda's technology for cylinder deactivation.
- How it works: VCM deactivates the rear bank of three cylinders on the V6 engine to save fuel when cruising or under light load.
- Availability: It is a standard feature on the Passport's 3.5-liter V6 engine across all model years since the 2019 redesign.
Does the 2025 Passport have VCM?
Fuel Economy:
EPA-estimated 19/24/21 (city/hwy/combined) Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) Eco Assist™ System.
Do Honda passports have VCM?
The Passport is powered by an aluminum-alloy 3.5-liter V-6 featuring direct injection, dual overhead camshafts, 24 valves and the Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) system.
Which Honda engines have VCM?
Vehicles equipped with VCM
- 2003 Honda Inspire (3- and 6-cylinder operation)
- 2004+ Honda Elysion V6.
- 2005–2007 Honda Accord Hybrid (JNA1)
